Ready to boost your health this summer without spending hours at the gym? It’s time to try something different. This summer, try making small changes in your routine that could make a big difference in the long run. Our environment and routine improves cognitive function, brain activity, blood pressure, mental health, physical activity, and sleep.
Let’s dive into nine unexpected habits that will help you feel better inside and out. Our personal trainers suggest giving one of these a try for 7 days and track how you feel. These tips go beyond exercise, they’re about changing your mindset, environment and daily routines. Let’s get started!
1. Do Your Hardest Workout… After Your Slowest Walk
Before you dive into your toughest workout, try a slow walk. It sounds simple, but it works. A leisurely stroll at the park or by the river will help lower cortisol levels and clear your mind. The fresh air is an added bonus. This simple step can make a huge difference in how you perform.
Tip: Try walking for 5-10 minutes at a gentle pace before your workout. It will help keep your heart rate steady throughout the workout. Make fitness a daily habit and not a one time thing.
2. Reclaim the “In-Between” Minutes
We all have 5 – 10 minute gaps in our day. Instead of doom scrolling through your phone, why not make them work for you? Use that time to stretch, journal, meditate or do a quick squat. Small actions like these add up.
Tip: Next time you’re waiting for your coffee or during a work break, stretch your arms, write down a thought, or even try a few squats. It only takes a few minutes!
3. Create a “No Phone” Space at Home
Phones are everywhere, but sometimes you need a break. Create a “no phone” zone in your home – a place where you can completely unplug and relax. It will help you recharge your mind and body.
Tip: One underrated health upgrade? Changing your environment. People are now designing calming, multi-use garden rooms to support routines that stick from mobility to meditation. Surrey Hills Garden Buildings specialises in creating custom wellness spaces that make movement and mental reset part of your daily rhythm.
4. Switch Up Your Workout Soundtrack
Music can totally change how you feel during a workout. Instead of blasting fast beats, try something more soothing. Ambient or binaural music can help you focus and reduce stress.
Tip: Swap your usual playlist for calm, nature-inspired tunes next time you exercise. See how it shifts your mood and effort.
5. Train your sense of smell (seriously)
It might sound odd, but scents can help improve your mood. Citrus, mint and rosemary are known to boost energy and focus. Just a warm whiff around the room can give you an instant mood lift.
Tip: Use essential oils or even fresh mint to keep your environment energised. It’s an easy and refreshing way to boost your mood.
6. Schedule Sunshine Like a Supplement
Sunlight is a natural health booster. Just 15 minutes of morning light can improve your sleep, metabolism, and even your mood. Think of it like a vitamin supplement that helps boost your immune system naturally.
Tip: Step outside for 15 minutes each morning to soak up the sun. It’s a quick way to reset your body and get that much-needed vitamin D.
7. Create a Post-Work “Unwind” Ritual
Work can be draining. But having a ritual to unwind after a busy day can help you switch off and relax. Whether it’s stretching, a short walk, or a bit of gardening, find something that signals the end of the day.
Tip: Take a light mobility session or walk around the block after work to transition into your evening. Your mind and body will thank you.
8. Take Your Workouts Barefoot
Grounding, or exercising barefoot on natural surfaces, is back in style. It improves stability and balance, helping you connect with the earth. Plus, it feels great!
Tip: Next time you work out, try doing it barefoot on grass or dirt. It improves your connection to the ground and your body’s movement. This is a great practice to carry-on your travels, especially when it’s difficult to stay fit and healthy when travelling.
9. Design for delight, not discipline
Your home and outdoor environment has a huge impact on your health. A well-designed space can boost your mood, help you relax and even improve your physical health. So, why not design your home or garden to inspire wellness?
Tip: Reorganise your space to make it more inviting for wellness. Whether it’s adding plants, using calming colours or setting up a peaceful training zone, your environment can nurture your health.
Conclusion
These nine simple & unexpected ways can help you boost your health this summer. Give one of these a try for seven days and see how it makes you feel. The key is to make small changes that add up to big results. And remember: health isn’t just about exercise. It’s about the environment, your habits and how you take care of yourself.
Ready to try something new? Start today and see how it feels.
